Implementing REACH

Implementing REACH is one of the most challenging tasks the chemical industry has ever faced. The REACH Regulation, which entered into force in 2007, foresees three registration phases: 

• the first one having ended on 30 November 2010,
• the second on 31 May 2013.
• the following one ends in 2018.

The registration is only one aspect of the Regulation, Evaluation and Authorisation/Restriction being the complementary ones.  All these phases and aspects require constant work from industry as well as active involvement from the Helsinki-based ECHA (European Chemicals Agency), the European Commission and the national competent authorities.

In order to help its members and other actors in the supply chains, Cefic has developed a number of guidance documents and tools to support companies in the implementation of REACH as well as to enhance harmonisation of procedures. Having a harmonised approach and using standard tools is key for a successful and efficient implementation of REACH requirements.